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India Seeks New Sponsor After Online Betting Games Ban Ends Dream11 Deal
Meta Title: India Looks for New Sponsor as Dream11 Deal Ends Over Betting Games Ban
Meta Description: Following the online betting games ban, India’s Dream11 sponsorship deal has ended. BCCI is now seeking a new partner for team sponsorship.
Introduction
In a major development for Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been left searching for a new team sponsor after its deal with Dream11 came to an abrupt end. The decision follows the government’s ban on online betting and fantasy gaming platforms, raising questions about sponsorship ethics, regulations, and the future of sports partnerships in India.
Why the Dream11 Deal Ended
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Dream11, India’s leading fantasy sports platform, had secured the team sponsorship rights in 2023.
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However, the recent crackdown on online betting and fantasy gaming apps has forced the brand to withdraw.
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Regulatory authorities classified such games as “highly addictive” and “potentially harmful,” directly impacting Dream11’s ability to continue sponsorship.
BCCI’s Next Steps
Potential Sponsor |
Industry |
Likelihood |
|
Byju’s (Edtech) |
Education Technology |
Low (financial restructuring ongoing) |
| TATA group |
Conglomerate |
High |
|
Relaince Jio |
Telecom |
Medium |
|
Paytm |
Finance |
Uncertain due to regulatory issues |
The BCCI is reportedly in talks with several potential sponsors to fill the gap:
The sponsorship amount is expected to cross ₹350-400 crore annually, depending on negotiations.
Impact on Indian Cricket
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Financial implications: The sudden exit leaves a major revenue gap for BCCI.
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Ethical sponsorships: The move highlights the increasing need for “cleaner” sponsorship sources not linked to gambling or betting.
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Brand image: Cricket, being India’s most followed sport, cannot afford to be tied to controversial industries.
Public & Expert Reactions
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Fans: Many cricket fans welcomed the ban, calling it a move to protect youth from gambling addiction.
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Experts: Sports marketing analysts believe this will open doors for traditional industries like FMCG, telecom, and banking to step in.
Conclusion
As Dream11 exits, Indian cricket finds itself at a crossroads. The hunt for a stable, ethical, and high-paying sponsor is now the top priority for BCCI. With brands like Tata and Reliance in the picture, the next sponsor will not only provide financial backing but also help shape the image of Indian cricket in the post-betting era.
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